Catalina 30 strength

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Paul

How strong is the Catalina 30 (1978)? I am thinking of taking this boat on an extended trip to Hawaii and possibly beyond. Is it strong enough? Thanks in advance, Paul
 
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LaDonna Bubak - CatalinaOwners

Yes & no

There have been several discussions about this in the past, so you might check the archives for more details but here are my thoughts. The boat itself is strong enough but are you? It wasn't designed as comfortable as a solid bluewater boat and you'll probably quit before the boat does. That said, you MUST upgrade many things on this boat to be safe; most importantly the rigging. Do some research, talk to some riggers and find out what you'll have to do to be safe, then decide if you'll be comfortable "at sea" with this boat. LaDonna
 
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Allen

Not without upgrades

AS an owner of a 1977 C-30, I'd be very apprehensive about bluewater cruising unless I put some upgrades into her. The chainplates (especially the starboard side) would all need to be beefed up & I'd take a close look at the rudder, rudder post & steering assembly for starters. If you have original thru-hull fittings, those will have to go, too. Obvious stuff, like water storage, fuel capacity, etc, should also be looked at. All in all, the boat wasn't designed for that kind of use, but upgrades will get her up to speed. I've read that others have taken their C-30's accross oceans, so I know it can be done, I'd just be certain you've considered every detail before heading out.
 
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gary jensen

Check with the Pacific Cup comittee

They have certain requirements that boats must have.(emergency tiller, liferaft, watermaker etc.) Myself, not in a 78 Catalina 30....Maybe a 36 that is bluewater certified.(I think 1995 and newer)...Thats 12+ days of OPEN OCEAN!!!!
 
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